Power of Democracy

Dear Oglethorpe Students,

For the last month, our great state of Georgia was thrust into the national spotlight as we prepared for the Senate runoff elections. Georgians took to the polls and demonstrated the immense power of democracy in action. Whatever your political affiliation, the results of the runoff elections illustrate the considerable impact of political organizing and the singular value of each and every vote in determining the outcome of a critical election. 

Yesterday afternoon provided a swift and alarming juxtaposition to the morning’s historic election results. The violence and unrest in Washington D.C. underscores the fragility of our democracy and the urgent need for active and ongoing participation and leadership in our democratic process. It also highlights the importance and power of communities like ours. At Oglethorpe, we are critically engaging with narratives about our country’s history. We are taking part in community activism. We are participating in civil discourse and difficult conversations about the political and social challenges of our time.  We are striving to promote justice and equity in our nation, in our communities, and in our individual lives.

In the spring, you will have many opportunities to learn about, discuss, and participate in civic engagement and our democratic process. In the meantime, I hope you will continue to read, reflect, and engage with these difficult and complex topics. Most importantly, I hope that you will stay safe and seek out the support you need to be well. Please stay connected with your communities and reach out if there is anything we can do to support you.

President Ladany